Session 5

Chapter 5: Peace, Hope, and Reconciliation

From Romans Study

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The One Thing: Suffering is an inescapable part of life, but God uses it to refine our character and ground us in gospel hope.

Intro

In Chapter 4, we looked at the example of Abraham and learned that faith is a total reliance on and trust in God’s character. We saw that God considered Abraham as righteous because of his faith that God would do what He promised, not because of anything Abraham did to earn it. This helps us understand how salvation works. It is a gift of grace received through faith in God’s promises, not the result of something we have earned.

But this foundation is just the beginning. Because we have been justified, we have peace with God and access to His grace. However, in Chapter 5, Paul addresses a difficult reality. Believers still face suffering. As you read, look for how Paul describes the relationship between suffering, endurance, character, and hope. This week is about applying our faith in the power of the gospel even when we can’t see what’s next. We know that because Jesus died for us while we were still sinners, we can trust Him with our present and our future.

Study Questions

1. Revisit your definition of justification in Chapter 3. How would you explain justification to someone who has never been to church?
2. According to verse 1, what is the only way to have peace with God?
3. In what areas of your life are you tempted to find peace apart from Jesus?
4. Think back to a time of suffering or hardship. How did the Lord use that experience to grow your endurance, character, and hope?
5. Read verses 6-11 and fill in the chart: Our condition BEFORE Jesus | Our condition AFTER Jesus
6. Verse 11 says we have received "reconciliation." This is our true condition: we have been brought back into a relationship with God through Jesus. When do you struggle to believe this is true, or when do you feel distance between you and God?
7. Read verses 12-19. Write a short prayer thanking Jesus for what these verses say He has done for you.
8. This chapter is full of contrasts (before/after Jesus, life/death, condemnation/justification). What comes to mind when you are confronted with these contrasts?
9. Why do you think Paul sets up these contrasts? What was his goal?

Because we are justified, we have peace with God. This peace allows believers to view suffering as a purposeful process that builds endurance, character, and an unshakable hope. 

Discussion Questions

1. Why is endurance a necessary step towards spiritual growth? How have you seen God use a season of suffering to grow your endurance and character?
2. If your spiritual "debt" is zeroed out, why is it still so hard to forgive yourself?
3. How can suffering produce internal strength rather than just making us bitter?
4. What does the phrase "death is a comma, not a period" mean for how you view eternity?
5. Reflect on your study this week. Are there any specific questions you want to discuss or insights you would like to share?